Joey Powell, a seasoned music educator with over a decade of experience guiding and directing school ensembles, earned his Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Stetson University. Starting his career at Southwestern Middle School in 2010, he dedicated seven years as the Director of the Choral and Band Departments.
Transitioning to Silver Sands Middle School in 2017 as the Director of Bands, Mr. Powell continued his commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, students consistently earned Superior ratings at FBA District Concert MPAs and secured placements in All County and All State auditions, showcasing the depth of their musical talent.
An active contributor to the field, Mr. Powell will be serving as the FBA District 6 Chair for the Florida Bandmaster's Association from 2025 to 2027. He is also the president of the Volusia County Organization of Music Educators. Recognized for his leadership potential, he was selected as an FMEA Emerging Leader and has served as the VCS All-County Chair for over a decade. Mr. Powell has been a CT for senior interns for Bethune Cookman University and Stetson University, contributing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the field of new directors.
Expanding his involvement, Mr. Powell has served as the President of the Lakeside Jazz Festival since 2024, a non-profit aimed at raising funds for summer band scholarships to the Port Orange Middle School and High School Bands. His dedication to community involvement aligns with his commitment to providing opportunities for aspiring musicians.
In the 2020-2021 school year, Mr. Powell's unwavering dedication and passion for teaching earned him the distinguished title of Teacher of the Year for Silver Sands Middle School. Ultimately emerging as a top 5 finalist for Teacher of the Year across the whole of Volusia County educators, his commitment to education and music resonates with his personal values. Supported by his wife (Rachel), Mr. Powell takes pride in being the devoted father of a ten-year-old daughter (Emma) and a seven-year-old son (Wyatt).
Directors: Past to Present
Glenn Jones- '83-'86 Aux: Kathy Blais '83
Mary Ada Kidd- '86-'98
Dave Hollingsworth- '98-'05
Michael Williams- '05-'17
Joseph Powell- '17- present